Plantar Fasciitis

Iontophoresis Protocol: Plantar Fasciitis

ETIOLOGY

Plantar fasciitis may occur anywhere along the plantar fascia. Commonly it affects the fascia at its origin, at the medial tuberosity of the calcaneus, or along the medial aspect of the fascia. Inflammation here may result from:

• repeated overload to the fascia (e.g. through running)

• a pronated foot which has a flattened longitudinal arch.

• a high-arched, rigid foot.

• a sudden increase in body weight.

• a sudden increase in activity level.

Secondarily, if the problem is left untreated, often the in­flammatory reaction at the calcaneus will produce a bone spur or. in extreme cases, calcification of the fascia itself.

Typical Dispersive Pad Site (Gastrocnemius)

Tibia

Fibula

Calcaneus

Typical Drug Electrode Sites

Plantar Fascia

Usually, the pain begins as a dull ache, progressing to a chronic, sharp pain. Commonly, the pain is worse upon arising, with the first few steps, and lessens as the plantar fascia stretches.